Washington Constitution Article XX - Public Health and Vital Statistics
Washington Constitution – Article XX: Public Health and Vital Statistics
Summary:
Article XX of the Washington State Constitution addresses public health and vital statistics, providing the state with the authority to enact laws and systems related to health and demographic record-keeping. Here's a breakdown of its content:
Key Provisions:
Public Health Authority:
The Legislature is empowered to enact laws promoting public health, including prevention and control of diseases.
The state may establish and maintain public health systems and institutions, such as hospitals and health boards.
Vital Statistics:
The state is responsible for keeping accurate records of births, deaths, marriages, and divorces.
The registration and preservation of such records are required by law.
This Article provides constitutional grounding for Washington's Department of Health and its vital records system. It ensures the legal basis for collecting and safeguarding essential demographic information and protecting public health through regulation and infrastructure.
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